By Lanre Oloyede
In a remarkable recognition of his contributions to societal progress, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, has been honored with the prestigious Award of Excellence as the Icon of Societal Development of the Year.
The award, presented by the National Association of Northern Nigerian Students (NANNS) at a brief ceremony held in his office in Abuja, acknowledged his exceptional dedication to peacebuilding, educational upliftment, philanthropy, and relentless service to the nation.
Speaking at the event, Bashir Nasir, the General Secretary of NANNS, praised Hon. Abba Isa’s impactful initiatives. He noted that the association, guided by its motto, Unity and Education for Progress, focuses on promoting patriotism, advocating good governance, and addressing pressing societal issues such as marginalization, unemployment, and drug abuse.
Addressing Critical Issues
Nasir highlighted the alarming statistics of over 20 million out-of-school children in Nigeria, with 65% of them from the northern region, many of whom are persons with special needs. “We have observed your significant efforts since assuming office, and we are here to express our gratitude and recognition,” he said.
He further commended the Beyond Disability Project, an initiative of Hon. Abba Isa’s office, for its widespread impact in empowering persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria. Nasir described the project as a beacon of hope, paving the way for inclusion and opportunities.
“We shall invite you to inspire and motivate our youths, particularly those with disabilities, to let them know that there is hope in disability,” he added.
Other members of the NANNS delegation included Hassan Ehaub, Organizing Secretary; Suleiman Agata, Director of Transport; and Farida Adebimpe, Director of Gender.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa expressed gratitude to NANNS, emphasizing that their advocacy aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“What you are doing is in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President,” he said. “We are all contributors to societal development, working together to bring positive change. This office was established to address the needs of the most marginalized groups, and this partnership will strengthen our resolve to deliver on the President’s vision.”
He also highlighted the importance of unity, peace, and progress, stating that meaningful development is impossible without these foundational elements.
This award caps a year filled with numerous recognitions for Hon. Abba Isa, underscoring his unwavering commitment to national development and inclusion.
The ceremony concluded with a renewed call to action for collaborative efforts to tackle societal challenges and foster sustainable development, with NANNS and Hon. Abba Isa pledging to work together to inspire hope and opportunity across the nation.
